BIOS 1034 Management of Aquatic Environments (WSTC)
Credit Points 10
Legacy Code 700297
Coordinator Virginia Shepherd Opens in new window
Description This unit introduces students to the physical, chemical and biological nature of water systems and the linkages to human activity. These linkages include a development of an appreciation of the essential services and broad uses and values of water in modern human society, and the natural environment. Students are challenged to examine the causes and effects of water pollution and environmental degradation. Students are introduced to scientific water sampling, analysis and reporting of water quality and pollution.
School Science
Discipline Ecology and Evolution
Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp
Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.
Level Undergraduate Level 1 subject
Equivalent Subjects BIOS 1027 Management of Aquatic Environments
BIOS 1028 Management of Aquatic Environments
Restrictions Students must be enrolled at Western Sydney University, The College. Students enrolled in Extended Diplomas must pass 40 credit points from the preparatory subjects listed in the program structure prior to enrolling in this University level subject.
Learning Outcomes
- List and compare and contrast the physical, chemical and biological components of a freshwater system;
- Design an experiment to measure the condition of a freshwater system using physical chemical and biological indicators.
- Discuss the potential risk to human health from exposure to degraded aquatic environments.
- Assess impacts of human development on the ecological health of freshwater aquatic environments;
- Recommend management strategies for improved freshwater environmental management.
- Explain the concept and principles of Ecologically Sustainable Development.
- Demonstrate competencies in written and oral communication, teamwork, experimental design, information literacy and data processing.
Subject Content
2.Water as a renewable resource
3.Demands of human activity on waterways
4.Ecosystems and waterways
5.Disposal of waste using waterways
6.Water pollution and its causes
7.Water quality and recreation
8.Government policy and regulation of water
9.Water sample collection
10.Laboratory analysis of water chemistry and biology
11.Communication and teamwork
12.Designing and delivering an oral presentation
13.Interpretation of water quality data
14.Use of field water quality meters
Special Requirements
Legislative pre-requisites
Students who opt to enrol in this subject are strongly recommended to obtain a Tetanus vaccination/booster. Students who cannot evidence vaccination may be precluded from activities on the Farm, and/or internships with third parties.
Assessment
The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.
| Item | Length | Percent | Threshold | Individual/Group Task |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written scientific report Log/workbook (in 5 parts)- Virtual field trip | (2500 words) 1000-1500 words to adequately answer questions, evaluate, and solve problems | 50 | N | Individual |
| Graphing and tabulation: This is an Individual report of the Methods and Results sections of the Group report. Graphing and Tabulation- water quality data | (Should include two tables and up to six graphs) | 20 | N | Individual |
| Group report researching current issues (1000 words) Log/Workbook (Case Studies on Environmental Health and Human Health) | 1000-1500 words to adequately answer questions, evaluate, and solve problems | 20 | N | Individual |
| Presentation Seminar- scientific conference poster presentation and oral delivery | (15 minutes 20 minutes oral delivery, poster preparation | 10 | N | Group |
Teaching Periods
Term 3
Nirimba Education Precinct
Day
Subject Contact Virginia Shepherd Opens in new window